Pranab's journey to Rashtrapati Bhavan

During his more than four decades of public service, Pranab Mukherjee, 76, elected as India's 13th president, was the government's principal trouble-shooter during its most tumultuous days as he commanded tremendous respect across the political spectrum.

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His position in the party was indisputable - until June 15, when the United Progressive Alliance named him its candidate for president. He had headed 83 of the 183 ministerial decision-making groups, known as Group of Ministers.

His position in the party was indisputable - until June 15, when the United Progressive Alliance named him its candidate for president. He had headed 83 of the 183 ministerial decision-making groups, known as Group of Ministers.